Bangladesh has opportunity to export more agricultural products to Singapore: High commissioner

Non-Resident High Commissioner of Singapore to Bangladesh Derek Loh said that the latter has opportunity to export more agricultural products to Singapore.

"Bangladesh can use 'Halal Certification' on their products as Singaporean Muslim community is interested in them", Derek said.

Derek made this comment as the special guest at a roundtable hosted by Eastern Bank PLC (EBL) on Investment Climate in Bangladesh and Singapore-Bangladesh Business Opportunities at its head office in the city's Gulshan area.

He said, "The present economic situation around the world is difficult for all. However, we have to work collectively to fight against the situation."

Not only the big investors, but also the small entrepreneurs are interested in investing Bangladesh, he added.

The roundtable was participated by the high-profile delegate from Singapore now visiting Dhaka in connection with the Bangladesh Investment Summit held here.

Zakir Hossain Chowdhury, the chief guest of the event and deputy governor of Bangladesh Bank, said "Bangladesh Bank is committed to fostering a financial ecosystem that aligns with global standards and supports bilateral trade and investment growth. We see Singapore not just as a trade partner, but as a strategic ally in achieving sustainable development, boosting financial innovation, and creating shared prosperity."

Md Hasan Abdullah Towhid, director, South East Asia Wing, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said "Singapore is a key partner for Bangladesh, with strong economic ties and great potential for expanded trade and investment. Bangladesh offers Singapore access to a large consumer market, a young, trainable workforce, and cost-effective manufacturing, serving as a gateway to South Asia. In return, Bangladesh seeks to benefit from Singapore's strengths in finance, urban planning, logistics, and technology. We welcome Singaporean investment in manufacturing, infrastructure, IT, renewable energy, and finance to support our digital economy goals."

Ahmed Shaheen, additional managing director of Eastern Bank, highlighted by saying, "At Eastern Bank, we are dedicated to creating opportunities for international investors through tailored banking solutions that facilitate cross-border investments and foster trade growth. Our specialised desks for China, Korea, Japan, and India have already proven successful, and we strongly advocate for the establishment of a dedicated Singapore desk to further enhance our partnership and support new avenues of collaboration."

The roundtable aimed to foster real dialogue, fresh ideas, and long-term partnerships. Singapore's strategic importance to Bangladesh was underscored, particularly as Bangladesh approaches LDC graduation and seeks deeper integration into global trade networks.

As Bangladesh's third-largest foreign investor, Singapore plays a crucial role in trade diversification, infrastructure development, and digital innovation. Participants also discussed how Singapore's position as a global logistics hub offers unique advantages for Bangladeshi goods entering ASEAN, East Asia, and Oceania markets.

The roundtable was attended by Mitchel Lee, Charge d'affaires, High Commission of the Republic of Singapore; Benjamin Chue, Development Partner, Enterprise Singapore; Anand S Lourembam, Head, Surbana Jurong; Melvin Tan and Ashraf Suppiah, Managing Director and GM of Cyclect Group respectively; and Pooi Choon Poh, Executive Director, DBS Singapore along with high officials from EBL.

The roundtable concluded with a message of gratitude to all attendees for their interest and engagement. Eastern Bank remains committed to serving as a catalyst for strengthening Singapore-Bangladesh trade and business relations.